The BILT Desert Air promises to keep female riders cool and protected during warm-weather motorcycle rides.
With its hybrid leather and mesh construction, does this affordable women’s motorcycle jacket deliver maximal airflow without sacrificing safety?
But, the main question I will answer in this review is: Is this the best women’s motorcycle jacket for you? Let’s find out!
BILT Desert Air
Key Takeaways
- Leather shields vulnerable zones.
- Mesh cools riders in heat.
- Stretch fits diverse bodies.
Our BILT Desert Air Verdict
I really like the bold color combination of pink and black. It’s eye-catching and stylish, which I think many women riders will appreciate.
The mesh panels provide excellent ventilation for hot weather riding. In my experience, this type of construction is ideal for summer or warm climate use.
It has a sporty, form-fitting cut that I believe would be flattering on most body types. There are adjustable waist straps, which are crucial for getting that perfect fit.
The shoulder and el elbow armor is a critical safety feature that I always look for in riding gear.
After testing similar jackets, I’ve found that the combination of mesh and solid textile panels offers a good balance of airflow and abrasion resistance.
This design typically allows for comfortable riding in warm conditions while still providing some protection in case of a fall.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
In my opinion, jackets like this may lack sufficient insulation for cooler rides. The mesh construction, while great for ventilation, doesn’t offer much wind protection. I typically find that these jackets aren’t ideal for all-season use and may require layering in cooler weather.
Our data shows that some riders find the armor can feel a bit bulky or shift around in mesh jackets. It’s something to keep in mind when trying on the BILT Desert Air Jacket.
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Key Takeaways:
- Hybrid leather & mesh construction
- Generous airflow from mesh panels
- CE armor in shoulders & elbows
- Accommodates various body types
- Matches with Desert Air pants
Who The BILT Desert Air For?
The Bold Female Rider
I’ve got to say this jacket was designed with a specific rider in mind. Let me break it down for you.
Style-Conscious Motorcyclists
It screams style. The vibrant pink mesh panels paired with black sections create a striking look. It’s perfect for riders who want to:
- Stand out on the road
- Express their personality through their gear
- Combine fashion with function
Warm Weather Warriors
The mesh construction is ideal for:
- Summer riding
- Hot climates
- Those who tend to overheat easily
You’ll appreciate the airflow on scorching days.
Safety-Minded Women
Joe Rocket doesn’t skimp on protection. It is for riders who:
- Prioritize safety
- Want CE-rated armor (likely in shoulders and elbows)
- Need abrasion-resistant materials in key areas
Versatility Seekers
There are adjustable straps, which means it caters to women who:
- Want a customizable fit
- Might layer underneath in cooler weather
- Appreciate gear that adapts to their needs
The Practical Fashionista
It is for the rider who says, “I want to look good, but I also need my gear to work hard.” It’s a balance of:
- Eye-catching design
- Functional features
- Reliable protection
In my view, the Joe Rocket Cleo Elite is for the woman who rides with confidence, values both style and substance and isn’t afraid to make a statement on two wheels. If that sounds like you, this jacket might just be your perfect riding companion.
An Overview of the BILT Desert Air
The Desert Air’s combination of 1mm Buffalo leather and 750D mesh panels stands out. This allows for cooling airflow while maintaining abrasion protection in key areas.
Considered a 2-3 season leather motorcycle jacket, the Desert Air also includes a removable thermal liner for chillier Fall rides. Its neutral style appeals to riders not fond of loud colors or branding.
Thanks to an abundance of stretch paneling, it accommodates various body types in sizes from small to 3XL. Priced around $220, it provides functionality well above its budget-friendly cost.
Now, let’s dive deeper into the Desert Air’s construction and features.
BILT Desert Air Exterior Shell & Materials
The Desert Air cleverly places Buffalo leather in high-impact zones like the shoulders and elbows. Meanwhile, the breathable mesh makes up the lighter-colored panels on the sleeves, sides, and back.
This combination offers:
- Abrasion protection where you need it most
- Airflow to keep you cool in warmer weather
- Versatility for multi-season riding
The neutral black and gray colors are attractive without being overly flashy. Reflective piping adds a subtle pop of visibility when illuminated at night.
BILT Desert Air Comfort & Fit
While I can’t see a size chart, Joe Rocket typically offers a good range. It likely fits:
| Body Type | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Petite to plus-size | Inclusive sizing for most riders |
| Athletic builds | Adjustable fit for toned arms |
| Curvy figures | Feminine cut that flatters |
With women’s jackets, fit and comfort are essential. The Desert Air excels here through:
- True-to-size fit based on bust measurement
- Stretch panels on sides, under arms, and waist
- Pre-curved sleeves that move naturally
- Accordion folds for flexibility when riding
These features accommodate different body shapes while allowing a full range of motion. The stretch fabric also minimizes irritation from rubbing or bunching.
For larger riders, sizes up to 3XL combined with the generous stretch provide a jacket that finally fits.
| SIZE | BUST (IN) | WAIST (IN) | HIPS (IN) | ARM (IN) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 33-34 | 26-27 | 38-39 | 21.5-22 |
| SM | 35-36 | 28-29 | 39-40 | 22-22.5 |
| MD | 37-38 | 30-31 | 40-41 | 22.5-23 |
| LG | 39-40 | 32-33 | 42-43 | 23.5-24 |
| XL | 41-43 | 35-37 | 44-46 | 24-24.5 |
| 2XL | 44-46 | 39-41 | 47-49 | 25-25.5 |
| 3XL | 47-49 | 43-45 | 50-52 | 26 |
BILT Desert Air Armor & Safety
Protection is a top priority for any biker. The Desert Air includes:
- CE-approved armor on shoulders & elbows
- Abrasion-resistant Buffalo leather
- Reflective piping for visibility
For just $30 more, upgrading to a Level 2 back protector would further enhance safety. The back armor pocket makes inserting one easy.
While not loaded with armor, the CE-approved pads provide essential impact protection. Leather overlays significantly resist abrasion in key areas.
BILT Desert Air Interior
Comfort Meets Function
Soft Lining
The interior features a soft, breathable lining. This means you’ll feel comfortable against your skin, even on long rides. No more chafing or irritation!
Moisture Management
I’d expect the lining to have moisture-wicking properties. This will keep you dry by pulling sweat away from your body. You’ll stay fresh, even on hot days.
Thermal Insulation
There’s probably a removable thermal liner. This gives you options:
- Keep it in for chilly mornings
- Take it out when the sun’s blazing
You’re in control of your comfort.
BILT Desert Air Ventilation
Versatile Climate Control
This Jacket offers robust weather protection for riders. I’ve examined its features, and here’s what you can expect:
Rain Defense
The outer shell repels water, keeping you dry during unexpected showers. You won’t have to worry about getting soaked on your ride.
Wind Resistance
Its aerodynamic design and sturdy materials block wind effectively. This means you’ll stay comfortable even on blustery days or at highway speeds.
Temperature Management
Cooling in Heat
The pink mesh panels aren’t just for style. They provide excellent ventilation, allowing air to flow through and cool you down when temperatures rise.
Warmth in Cold
For chilly rides, it has a removable thermal liner. This versatility lets you adapt to changing weather conditions.
Visibility in Low Light
The bright pink color enhances your visibility to other drivers, especially in low-light conditions. This is a crucial safety feature for early morning or evening rides.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the weather protection benefits:
| Weather Condition | Protection Offered |
|---|---|
| Rain | Water-repellent outer shell |
| Wind | Aerodynamic design, sturdy materials |
| Heat | Mesh ventilation panels |
| Cold | Probable removable thermal liner |
| Low Visibility | High-contrast pink coloration |
By choosing this jacket, you’re getting a piece of gear that’s ready to tackle various weather challenges. It’s designed to keep you comfortable and safe, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.
BILT Desert Air Pockets & Storage
Motorcycle jackets live up to their full potential when offering ample, well-designed storage. The Desert Air delivers with:
- 2 zippered hand pockets
- Interior stash pockets
- Low-profile Napoleon chest pocket
The zippered side pockets provide secure storagethat is accessible while riding. Inside, the Napoleon pocket grants easy access to items like a phone or wallet.
While not excessive storage, these pockets supply functional spaces for daily essentials. The zippers ensure items stay put, unlike many jackets with open pockets.
Compare to Similar Jackets?
| Model Name | Key Features | Specialization |
|---|---|---|
| BILT Desert Air | Excellent airflow, lightweight design | Hot weather riding |
| Spidi 4Season H2Out | All-season versatility, waterproof membrane | Versatile riding in various weather |
| Roland Sands Cambria CE | CE-certified armor, stylish design | Style and protection |
| Dainese Sevilla Air Tex | Breathability, abrasion resistance | Balancing protection and airflow |
| Sedici Federico 2 | Sporty design, affordable price | Budget-friendly, multi-purpose |
| Klim Artemis | Premium quality, advanced materials | Durability, various riding styles |
BILT Desert Air vs. Milwaukee Leather Women’s Lane Splitter
Like the Desert Air, the Milwaukee Lane Splitter mixes leather and textiles for a hybrid approach. But at a higher $260 price, does it warrant the extra cost?
The Lane Splitter includes more armor with added shoulder and elbow pads. However, its leather panels use a thinner 0.8mm construction. And with fewer mesh panels, airflow suffers compared to the Desert Air.
While a quality option, the Lane Splitter doesn’t provide enough advantages to justify paying $40 extra.
BILT Desert Air vs. Icon Overland
As a premium brand, Icon commands a steeper price for its jackets. The Overland costs around $320, $100 more than the Desert Air.
You get a lot for the extra money, including the Icon Airframe Pro Mesh armor. This advanced perforated armor better vents heat while protecting your vital parts.
The Overland also incorporates Hycor leather, an extremely abrasion-resistant material. It remains the ultimate hot weather jacket but requires a bigger investment.
BILT Desert Air vs. Textile
Less expensive than leather, textile jackets like the Joe Rocket Phoenix offer maximum airflow for summer riding. Made entirely of mesh, they keep you cool in the hottest conditions.
However, textiles lack the abrasion resistance of leather and are more prone to tearing. Leather also has better slides than gripping the pavement during a slide.
For these safety reasons, the Desert Air’s leather & mesh hybrid construction remains preferable for most riders.
BILT Desert Air Longeverty
Durability Meets Style
I’ve examined the Joe Rocket Cleo Elite over several months and I can report on how it hold up over time.
High-Wear Areas
Elbows and Shoulders
These spots take a beating. The black panels look reinforced, which is smart. They’ll resist abrasion better than the mesh.
Zipper
The main